Thinking about buying a canal boat? Read everything you need to know for professional use.
A group of passengers steps on board, takes a seat, and looks around curiously as the boat slowly departs from the quay. Laughter can be heard, cameras appear as the water gently ripples along the hull. A sightseeing boat is all about experience and comfort, whether sailing with small groups or larger parties.
On this page, you will read what to look out for when choosing a sightseeing boat and what options are available for different types of waterways and applications. You will also find information about advice and support from HISWA-recognised companies.
Which canal boat suits my business?
The type of canal boat that best suits your business depends on how you want to offer your cruises, who your target audience is, and the waters you operate in. Important factors to consider include:
- Boat capacity. Small boats for 10 to 20 passengers are ideal for exclusive, personal cruises or private arrangements. Medium to large boats are better suited for tours with bigger groups.
- Open or covered. Open boats offer unobstructed views and are attractive in good weather. Covered or partially covered boats provide greater comfort in rain, wind or cold conditions, allowing you to extend your cruising season. Some boats feature a removable cockpit canopy, making them suitable for both fair and less favorable weather.
- Cruising area. Narrow canals require highly maneuverable boats. On rivers, stability is essential, as well as resistance to wind and waves. Also consider bridge clearance, water depth, and local regulations.
- Propulsion. Electric boats are quiet, environmentally friendly, and well-suited for urban areas with strict environmental regulations. Diesel-powered boats are practical for longer distances but are less sustainable. Hybrid boats offer a balanced solution between the two.
In short, there is no standard choice when it comes to a canal boat. The right boat is tailored to your cruising area and the experience you want to offer your passengers.
Laws and regulations for canal boats in the Netherlands
If you intend to use your canal boat for passenger transport, you must comply with various laws and regulations. Key provisions are set out in the Inland Shipping Act and the European ES-TRIN standard, which describes technical requirements for inland vessels.
Important points to consider:
- Inland navigation certificate. If your canal boat carries more than twelve passengers, an inland navigation certificate is mandatory. This certificate is issued only after a thorough onboard inspection. The inspection covers, among other things, the hull, electrical installation, and vessel documentation.
- Boating licenses and permits. The captain must hold a valid boating license. Depending on the type of waterway, a specific permit may also be required. Without these documents, the vessel may not be operated.
- Crew qualification certificates. Crew members performing certain duties must demonstrate that they possess the required knowledge and skills by means of qualification certificates.
- Municipal regulations. Municipalities may impose additional rules, such as permits for moorings, restrictions on commercial signage, or measures to prevent environmental or public nuisance. It is therefore important to verify in advance which regulations apply in your intended cruising area.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How can I avoid making a bad purchase?
When purchasing a new or pre-owned canal boat, you want to be confident that you are making the right choice. An important step is to have a pre-purchase survey carried out by an independent HISWA expert. During this inspection, not only the maintenance condition is assessed, but also any (hidden) defects and necessary improvements. This allows you to complete the purchase with confidence.
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Can I receive additional guidance when purchasing my boat?
Absolutely. In addition to an independent pre-purchase inspection, you can engage a HISWA-certified yacht broker. This professional will guide you through every step of the purchasing process: from drafting the official HISWA purchase agreement to assisting with the valuation of your current boat. They can also arrange inspections, official valuations for insurance or financing purposes, and other important matters related to your purchase.
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Open or (partially) enclosed: which canal boat should I choose?
- Open canal boat. Your passengers sit in the fresh open air with the sun on their faces. Without a canopy, they can fully enjoy panoramic views and a gentle breeze.
- Partially enclosed canal boat. Guests sit comfortably under a covered section when it rains and can enjoy the open deck when the sun appears. The removable cockpit canopy makes it possible to enjoy a pleasant cruise regardless of the weather.
- Fully enclosed canal boat. Your passengers stay dry, warm and comfortable in all weather conditions. Large windows allow them to continue enjoying the view over the water. These boats are ideal for longer trips, larger groups, and changeable weather, and they significantly extend the cruising season.
With convenient filters, you can easily search by length, beam, draft, price, and age of the boat. This helps you quickly find the vessel that fits your plans on the water and the experience you want to offer your passengers.
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What are the annual costs of a canal boat?
Purchasing a canal boat is a worthwhile investment, but we recommend forming a realistic picture of the costs in advance. Expenses vary by boat type and depend largely on how frequently and how long you operate it. In addition to the purchase price, you can generally expect the following costs:
- Maintenance. This includes annual servicing of the engine and other technical components, as well as periodic painting to keep the boat in good condition.
- Mooring. You will pay mooring fees for a permanent berth in a city marina or harbor. The price depends mainly on the location and the size of your boat.
- Fuel or electricity. The more operating hours you log, the higher these costs will be. Whether you operate electrically or on diesel will of course make a difference.
- Winter storage. During winter, boats are typically taken out of the water. Costs include lifting, cleaning, and storage.
- Inspections and certification. Commercial operations require periodic inspections and proper documentation.
Why choose a HISWA-certified company?
HISWA-recognised watersport companies, yacht brokers, and shipyards offer support in selecting a suitable sightseeing boat. In addition, they provide the following three assurances:
- Special terms and conditions. Together with ANWB, terms have been established that guarantee a safe and reliable purchase.
- Expert advice. You receive guidance from professionals experienced in commercial shipping and passenger vessels.
- Security with your purchase. Even with pre-owned canal boats, you can count on additional assurance through the HISWA warranty certificate.